The Odisha Assembly faced uproar as members from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress protested alleged mismanagement in paddy procurement. BJD members protested near the Speaker’s podium, highlighting chaos in state mandis. In a unique move, BJD legislators placed paddy on reporters’ tables, while Congress members raised anti-government slogans.
The opposition’s actions led to the adjournment of the House by Speaker Surama Padhy multiple times. BJD Chief Whip Pramila Mallik expressed concerns over farmers’ issues, including non-lifting of paddy and ‘katni-chhatni’ practices during procurement. Mallik criticized the government for distressing farmers with a ceiling on paddy quantity for subsidy disbursement.
Mallik accused the government of allowing illegal deductions of paddy by millers during procurement, affecting farmers’ earnings. She highlighted inconsistencies in government statements and vowed to continue protests until all farmers’ paddy is lifted. Congress leaders echoed similar concerns, alleging collusion between the government and rice millers in distress selling of paddy.
Ruling party leaders criticized the opposition for stalling proceedings and hindering Odisha’s development discussions. The ongoing dispute revolves around paddy procurement issues, with opposition parties demanding fair treatment for farmers.
